Can geranium herb be used to treat chilblains?

Geranium can be used to treat mild frostbite, but if the condition is severe, it may be difficult to treat. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a professional physician.

Geranium has certain effects in promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis, reducing swelling, and relieving pain. For mild frostbite, such as redness, swelling, and pain on the skin without ulcers or blisters, geranium may help improve local blood circulation and alleviate frostbite symptoms. It can be applied externally by washing the affected area with decocted geranium solution or applying geranium ointment. If frostbite is at an early stage with only mild redness, swelling, itching, and intact, unbroken skin, topical application of geranium may help relieve symptoms.

If the frostbite is severe, such as when blisters, ulcers, or even tissue necrosis have developed on the skin, using geranium alone may not achieve therapeutic effects. When frostbite has progressed to blisters, ulcers, or secondary infection with compromised skin barrier, direct application of geranium may irritate the wound and worsen the inflammatory response.

Maintaining warm and dry skin and avoiding exposure to cold environments can also help prevent and treat frostbite.